Buddhism

In Sri Lanka, Theravada Buddhism is one of the major religions. Majority of the Sinhalese community are Buddhists. Religious Buddhists visit the Buddhist temples every week. Special offerings are made on the full moon day of every month. In Sri Lanka Theravada Buddhism is generally divided into Siyam Nikaya, Ramanna Nikaya and Amarapura Nikaya.
According to the chronicles, Devanampiya Tissa, one of the Sri Lankan kings was the first to take up Buddhism in this country. He was converted in 246 B.C. by King Asoka's son Arahath Mahindra. Arahath Sanghamitra, daughter of King Asoka brought a sapling of the Bodhi tree. This sapling was planted in Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka.
Buddhism spread with the encouragement of the royal families of Sri Lanka. A number of Buddhist monasteries and missionaries were built here. By 200 B.C Buddhism was taken as Sri Lanka's official language. Princess Hemamala and Prince Danta brought the Sacred Tooth Relic in Sri Lanka.
Influence of colonial rule and Hindu religion resulted in the decline of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Slowly the faith on Buddhism developed as a sense of nationalism grew up in the mind of country men against the foreign rulers. The religion was revived during 19th Century. For its revival renowned Buddhist leaders undertook movements in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka Buddhism: A Journey Through the Island's Spiritual Heart

Buddhism is intricately woven into Sri Lanka’s cultural and spiritual landscape, shaping the island’s history, architecture, and daily life. With over 70% of Sri Lankans identifying as Buddhists, the religion has a profound influence on the nation’s identity. From ancient cities and sacred relics to bustling temples and serene meditation centers, Sri Lanka offers travelers a chance to explore the depth and beauty of Buddhism on this spiritual island.

For visitors seeking an immersive, ground-level experience of Buddhism, Sri Lanka is a treasure trove. Journeying through the country offers not only a glimpse into ancient history but also an opportunity to experience living Buddhist traditions, festivals, and daily practices.

Buddhism’s Roots in Sri Lanka

Buddhism arrived in Sri Lanka around the 3rd century BCE, brought by Arahat Mahinda, the son of the Indian Emperor Ashoka, who introduced the teachings of the Buddha to King Devanampiya Tissa. The king embraced Buddhism, and it quickly became the island's main religion. This historic moment laid the foundation for centuries of Buddhist practice, shaping Sri Lanka’s culture, art, and architecture.

Throughout Sri Lanka, Buddhism is evident in towering stupas, intricately carved statues, and sacred relics that tell the story of the religion’s journey on the island. Many ancient Buddhist sites have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites, serving as testaments to the island's commitment to preserving its spiritual heritage.

Key Attractions for a Buddhist Pilgrimage in Sri Lanka

Whether you’re a devout Buddhist or simply interested in spiritual history, the following sites provide meaningful insight into Sri Lankan Buddhism.

1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy

The Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) in Kandy is Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist temple. Housing what is believed to be a tooth of the Buddha, the temple is a pilgrimage destination for Buddhists from around the world. The relic is kept in a heavily guarded chamber and is only displayed to the public on special occasions. However, visitors can still feel the spiritual aura of the temple, enhanced by daily rituals, traditional drumming, and the scent of incense.

Experience Highlight: Visiting during the Esala Perahera in July or August offers a rare chance to witness a grand procession in honor of the Tooth Relic, featuring dancers, drummers, and decorated elephants.

2. Anuradhapura: The Ancient City of Buddhism

Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and holds an important place in the history of Buddhism. The city is home to ancient stupas such as Ruwanwelisaya and Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred Bodhi tree believed to be grown from a cutting of the original tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. This tree has been protected and cared for over two millennia, attracting pilgrims from across the globe.

Experience Highlight: Walking among the ancient stupas and monastic ruins, visitors can witness the devotion of pilgrims who come to offer prayers and blessings. The serene ambiance and historical significance of Anuradhapura make it an essential stop for anyone interested in Buddhist history.

3. Mihintale: The Birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka

Mihintale is considered the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, where Arahat Mahinda met King Devanampiya Tissa and introduced him to Buddhism. The hill of Mihintale is dotted with shrines, stupas, and caves, and is an ideal location for those seeking peace and solitude.

Experience Highlight: Climbing Mihintale Hill during dawn or dusk rewards visitors with stunning panoramic views, and the atmosphere is often filled with the sounds of monks chanting and devotees offering prayers.

4. Dambulla Cave Temple: A Unique Rock Temple

The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a fascinating network of caves filled with Buddha statues and murals. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has over 150 Buddha images, including a massive reclining Buddha statue. The colorful murals on the cave walls depict scenes from the life of the Buddha, creating an immersive spiritual experience for visitors.

Experience Highlight: Exploring the dimly lit caves allows visitors to experience the serene ambiance and contemplate the devotion of ancient artisans who dedicated their skills to these temples.

5. Polonnaruwa: An Ancient Buddhist Kingdom

Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, served as a prominent Buddhist kingdom after Anuradhapura. The city is known for its well-preserved ruins, including the Gal Vihara, a rock temple with iconic Buddha statues carved into granite. These statues are masterpieces of Sri Lankan art, displaying the serene expressions of the Buddha.

Experience Highlight: A guided tour of Polonnaruwa provides insight into the history and significance of each monument, from the imposing stupas to the intricately detailed stone carvings.

6. Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada): A Symbol of Spiritual Unity

Adam’s Peak, or Sri Pada, is a sacred mountain that holds significance for multiple religions, including Buddhism. At the summit lies a footprint-shaped indentation believed by Buddhists to be the footprint of the Buddha. Every year, thousands of pilgrims climb the mountain, often starting the ascent at midnight to reach the summit at dawn.

Experience Highlight: Reaching the peak for sunrise is a spiritually uplifting experience as pilgrims and travelers chant in unison, watching the first rays of light fill the horizon.

Buddhist Festivals and Celebrations

Buddhism in Sri Lanka is celebrated through vibrant festivals, each providing unique insights into the island's religious customs:

• Vesak: Celebrated in May, Vesak marks the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha. Streets are adorned with colorful lanterns and lights, and devotees gather in temples to offer prayers.
• Poson Poya: Celebrated in June, Poson Poya commemorates the arrival of Arahat Mahinda and the establishment of Buddhism. Mihintale becomes the focal point of this festival, with processions, rituals, and offerings.
• Esala Perahera: Held in Kandy, this festival in July or August celebrates the Sacred Tooth Relic and showcases Sri Lankan culture through dance, music, and traditional drumming.

Suggested Itineraries for a Buddhist Pilgrimage in Sri Lanka

To fully immerse in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage, here’s a suggested itinerary that allows travelers to experience the island’s most important Buddhist sites:

Day 1-2: Anuradhapura and Mihintale

• Begin in Anuradhapura to explore its ancient stupas and the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi.
• Visit Mihintale to climb the steps of the birthplace of Sri Lankan Buddhism.

Day 3: Dambulla Cave Temple

• Head to Dambulla to experience the mystique of the cave temples and marvel at the ancient Buddha statues and murals.

Day 4: Kandy and Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

• Travel to Kandy to visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. If possible, plan to witness the rituals and ceremonies held here daily.
• Explore nearby temples, including the Royal Palace and Kandy Lake.

Day 5: Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada)

• Begin your pilgrimage up Adam’s Peak at night for a dawn ascent. Witness the breathtaking sunrise and the reverence of pilgrims at the summit.

Day 6: Polonnaruwa

• Conclude the journey in Polonnaruwa, where the Gal Vihara and other ancient monuments reflect the island’s dedication to Buddhism.

Ground-Level Experiences and Meditation Retreats

For travelers seeking a more profound connection with Buddhism, Sri Lanka offers meditation retreats and monastic experiences. Meditation centers like Nilambe Meditation Centre in Kandy or the International Vipassana Meditation Centre near Colombo welcome visitors interested in practicing mindfulness and Vipassana meditation techniques. These centers offer an authentic experience for those wanting to immerse themselves in Buddhist teachings, with peaceful surroundings ideal for meditation.

In addition to meditation centers, many temples offer opportunities to engage in daily rituals, such as lighting oil lamps, offering flowers, and listening to monks’ teachings. For an authentic, ground-level experience, visitors can also participate in Poya Day observances, held monthly during the full moon, when devotees gather for prayers and special sermons.

The Influence of Buddhism on Daily Life in Sri Lanka

Buddhism is not confined to temples and festivals in Sri Lanka; it’s a guiding force in the lives of many Sri Lankans. Observing a typical day in a Sri Lankan village or town reveals subtle yet significant ways in which Buddhism permeates daily life. From the sounds of temple bells in the early morning to rituals conducted in homes, Buddhism provides a moral framework, encouraging compassion, mindfulness, and generosity.

Moreover, Buddhist values influence Sri Lankan art, literature, and architecture, evident in the intricate carvings on temples, the serene expressions on Buddha statues, and the peaceful aura of ancient ruins. These elements come together to create a unique spiritual atmosphere that welcomes visitors and provides a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka's heritage.